Royal Guard (Classic Star Wars)
sw0040 · Star Wars
The Classic Trilogy / Episode VI: Return of the Jedi · 2001 (Original release in set 7166)
Figure ID
sw0040
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2001 (Original release in set 7166)
Rarity
Uncommon. While highly produced in early waves, finding one in mint condition with original accessories is becoming increasingly difficult as it has been retired for over 15 years.
Head
The head is a plain black element, though in later variations a 'corncob' pattern or a face was used. In the provided image, the figure appears to have an incorrect white/printed head substituted from a different theme (likely a Ninjago or skeleton-based figure), which is not original to sw0040.
Torso
Red torso with simple black line printing representing the folds of the crimson robes and a small V-neck collar. Red arms and light gray/white hands (though originally released with red hands).
Legs
Plain unprinted red legs with a matching red hip piece.
Accessories
Missing its primary iconic accessories: the large wrap-around red helmet/mask and its Force Pike (black spear). It is currently shown with a black cloth cape which is standard for the figure.
Color Scheme
Primarily bright Red with black line accents. The original screen-accurate version is famous for its monochromatic crimson look.
Printing Details
Minimal pad printing on the front of the torso only. In the 2001 era, back printing and leg printing were not yet standard for Star Wars minifigures.
Variants
Varieties include the 2001 version (sw0040), the 2014 updated version with red arms and detailed printing (sw0521), and the Dark Red version (sw1104).
Condition Notes
Common wear includes fraying on the red cape, head-swapping (as seen here), and bite marks on the soft plastic spears. The red plastic is generally resistant to yellowing but can show scratches easily.
Estimated Value
$5.00 - $12.00 in current incomplete/mixed state. A complete mint version with the correct head and helm is valued at approximately $15.00 - $22.00.
Price (New)
Originally available in set 7166 Imperial Shuttle ($35.00) and later in 6211 Imperial Star Destroyer ($100.00).
Compatible Sets
7166 Imperial Shuttle (2001), 6211 Imperial Star Destroyer (2006).
Character Background
The Emperor's Royal Guard, also known as the Imperial Guard, are the elite personal bodyguards of Galactic Emperor Palpatine from the Star Wars Saga.
Design Notes
This figure is iconic for its unique helmet mold which was the first of its kind in 2001, effectively masking the entire head to maintain the guard's anonymity.
Similar Minifigures
Senate Commando (sw0614), Shadow Guard (sw0604), and the updated 2014 Royal Guard (sw0521).
Collectibility
High. Army builders often seek these out in large quantities to flank Emperor Palpatine or Darth Vader figures.
History
First appearing in the second year of the LEGO Star Wars license, the Royal Guard has gone through three major redesigns, moving from simple lines to high-detail robe printing.
Interesting Facts
For many years, this figure was the only one that used a completely black head to simulate a void beneath the helmet visor.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed in pairs standing at attention on either side of the Emperor's throne or at the ramp of an Imperial Shuttle.
Modification Potential
The red torso is a popular part for MOC creators building custom red-garbed characters or superheroes like Daredevil.
Overall Assessment
This specific unit is a 'franken-figure'—it has the correct sw0040 torso and legs but is missing the vital helmet and carries an incorrect head. For a collector, it serves better as spare parts unless the original helmet can be sourced.